Where to Live in Montenegro in 2025: City Overview, Prices, and Conditions

Where to Live in Montenegro in 2025: Overview of Cities, Prices and Conditions

Montenegro remains one of the most affordable destinations in Europe for relocation and investment. In 2025, the country shows GDP growth of 3–3.2% and is preparing to join the EU (tentatively in 2028). The main inflow of expats comes from remote workers and investors from Turkey, Germany, Russia and Ukraine, attracted by low taxes and a mild climate.

Lifehack: To objectively assess a city for long-term living, visit it between November and March. During this period, all the disadvantages of the “dead season” become apparent: lack of heating, closed cafés and empty streets.

Budva: the center of tourism and dynamics

The most popular city among tourists. Suitable for those looking for an active social life and work in the hospitality industry.

Pros: developed infrastructure, plenty of beaches, proximity to Tivat airport (25 min) and the capital.
Cons: extreme crowds from April to October, traffic jams, lack of parking and high noise levels.
Cost: one-bedroom apartment rent — 700–1200€; property purchase — 1700–3500€ per sq. m.

Bar: practicality and comfort for families

A large port city with wide streets and developed infrastructure. Considered one of the sunniest places in the country.

Pros: works year-round (no “dead city” effect), railway connection to Belgrade, plenty of parks and olive groves.
Cons: lack of an “old town” directly by the sea, industrial port areas, distance from major airports (45–60 min).
Cost: rent — 600–800€; purchase — 1400–3000€ per sq. m.

Recommendation: Bar is the best choice for retirees and families with children thanks to its flat terrain and the availability of all necessary social services within walking distance.

Podgorica: the capital business hub

An administrative center without access to the sea. This is where embassies, company headquarters and the best shopping malls (Big Fashion) are concentrated.

Pros: lowest cost of living, best healthcare in the country, functioning schools and universities.
Cons: exhausting summer heat (up to +40°C), lack of sea air, aesthetics of concrete districts.
Cost: rent — 450–600€; purchase — average price 2153€ per sq. m.

Kotor: history and aesthetics

A UNESCO-protected city located deep in the Bay of Kotor.

Pros: unique architecture, breathtaking views, premium status.
Cons: huge cruise liners bring up to 4,000 tourists daily; high humidity and lack of sun in winter due to the mountains.
Cost: rent — 700–1000€; purchase — 2000–3500€ per sq. m.

Attention: In Kotor and Tivat, heavy rains are frequent in winter. When choosing housing, be sure to check for heating air conditioners or underfloor heating systems, otherwise mold is inevitable.

Tivat: luxury and yachting

The most modern and “Europeanized” city thanks to the Porto Montenegro marina.

Pros: cleanliness, safety, international school (Knightsbridge), proximity to the airport.
Cons: the highest prices in the country, limited territory, little authenticity.
Cost: rent — 700–1200€+; elite real estate in Porto Montenegro — from 8000–14000€ per sq. m.

Cost of living in 2025

Inflation in 2024–2025 amounted to about 4.8%, which affected supermarket bills and service costs.

For one person: 800–1300€ per month (including rent).
For a family of four: 2500–3500€ per month.
Utilities: 80–170€ (electricity is the most expensive item in winter).
Groceries: 300–500€ per person.

Practical tips on real estate and taxes

Montenegro has some of the lowest tax rates in Europe, making it attractive for business.

Taxes: personal income tax and corporate tax — 9–15%. Property tax — less than 0.5%.
Residence permit: can be obtained through the purchase of real estate (from 200,000€) or company registration.
Legal cleanliness: when purchasing, always involve a lawyer. Avoid properties built in the 1990s–2000s without permits (legalizacija).

Fines: Do not forget to register your stay (“white card”) within 24 hours after entry. The fine for lack of registration upon departure is up to 200€.

For a balance between price and quality of life in 2025, the optimal choice remains Bar or districts of Podgorica (City Kvart). For those who value status and comfort regardless of budget — Tivat.